Diabetes Management Program

Diabetes is a serious disease which, if not controlled, can be life threatening. It is often associated with long-term complications that can affect every system and part of the body.

Type 2 Diabetes is a disease in which the body has trouble processing glucose, or blood sugar, and can lead to serious health problems like heart and kidney disease, foot infections, nerve damage and blindness.

Diabetes can't be cured. The key to preventing the disease is taking steps to keep blood sugar levels in check. The progression of the disease can be slowed through a combination of diet, exercise and lifestyle changes.

To help patients manage diabetes, the Advocate Health Centers offers a diabetes program called "Basics", which is specially geared to patients who have recently learned they have the disease.

Recognized by the American Diabetes Association, the program is built on the idea that patients who learn to make lifestyle changes can control their type 2 diabetes more effectively.

The elements of the program are:

• Controlling glucose levels through proper nutrition, exercise and lifestyle changes
• Relationship with a primary care physician who explains how to monitor blood sugar at home, what individual targets should be, when to take medication and how to maintain healthy cholesterol levels
• Group classes conducted by a dietician and nurse that offer useful information on the medical and lifestyle issues surrounding diabetes.
• Personalized nutrition and exercise plans for patients
• Information on daily foot care
• Clinicians serve as resources for patients' questions and medical concerns

Click here to see take our diabetes quiz.